But that’s only true if your teen is feeling that pressure from negative people! You can help your teen experience positive peer pressure, too.

You probably know that you can’t pick your teen’s friends. But you can encourage certain activities and interests that will let him meet teens who are likely to be strong peer models.

• Extra-curricular activities at school are probably the easiest way for your teen to meet a positive peer group. If she hasn’t joined anything yet, look over the school yearbook together and try to find a club that meets her interests.
• Outside school, there are service clubs as well as youth groups at houses of worship. If transportation is a problem, help your teen arrange a carpool. If another teen will be driving, invite him in for a soda or snack before or afterward.
• Make it clear to your teen that you want him to entertain friends at your house when you will be there. Offer pizza, video rentals and a variety of snacks and sodas. It’s so important for you to know who her friends are.
• Seek out the parents of your teen’s friends. Talk with them about the rules they keep and the values they share with their children. You will probably have something in common. And you’ll be able to counter your teen when he tells you everyone else is allowed to stay out as late as they want to.

Copyright © Parent Institute